The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a detailed weather forecast predicting light to moderate rain and snowfall across various parts of the country, driven by an approaching shallow westerly wave. This weather system is expected to impact western and northern regions starting from the night of January 30 and continuing until February 03, bringing significant changes to the climate.
Expected Weather Patterns and Regional Impacts
According to the Met Office, the forecast indicates mainly cloudy conditions with precipitation in multiple areas. From January 31 to February 3, Gilgit-Baltistan, including districts such as Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar, is set to experience light to moderate rain along with snowfall over hilly terrains. Similarly, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, covering regions like Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhnoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur, will witness similar weather patterns with occasional breaks.
Rain and Snowfall in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Other Areas
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, areas including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Shangla, Kohistan, Buner, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mardan, Peshawar, Kohat, Kurram, and Waziristan are also likely to receive rain and snowfall during this period. Additionally, light rain is anticipated in Islamabad, the Potohar region, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Gujranwala, and surrounding areas from February 01 to 03, while Murree and the Galliyat may see light rain and snowfall.
Northern Balochistan Weather Conditions
Northern Balochistan, encompassing Quetta, Ziarat, Zhob, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Noshki, and Harnai, is forecasted to experience light to moderate rain accompanied by wind and snowfall from January 31 to February 01. This adds to the diverse weather impacts across the country.
Warnings and Precautions for Public Safety
The PMD has issued important warnings regarding the potential hazards associated with this weather event. Snowfall may lead to slippery road conditions in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Balochistan, affecting popular tourist destinations such as Naran, Kaghan, Swat, Kalam, Chitral, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Murree, Ziarat, and Quetta. There is also a risk of landslides and avalanches in hilly areas during the forecast period.
In response, tourists have been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel to these regions. Daytime temperatures are expected to drop significantly, adding to the challenges. The PMD urges the public to stay informed by regularly checking daily weather bulletins and taking all necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of inclement weather.
